Program Launched to Provide Emotional Support to Jurors

A program has been launched to support people experiencing personal difficulties resulting from jury duty.

“We are grateful to everyone who acts as a juror, and greatly respect the vital role they play in the administration of justice,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan said. “Jurors are often called upon to witness horrific and gruesome evidence in fulfillment of this role, and we’re dedicated to providing them with the support they need to move on once their responsibility is fulfilled.”

The Juror Support Program will be administered by the Ministry of Justice and will be available starting December 1 to anyone experiencing difficulties related to their service as a juror on a criminal trial, civil trial, or coroner’s inquest. Those wishing to take advantage of the program will have two months to do so after they complete jury duty.

The program will provide jurors with access to four treatment sessions with a health care professional to help them overcome personal difficulties related to their jury duty. Additional sessions may be approved if deemed appropriate in the circumstances.

Upon recommendation of the service provider, approval for a spouse, life partner or family member may also be permitted. Professional counsellors will be available in 24 Saskatchewan communities. Counselling will take place in person wherever possible. Alternative methods of communication will be supported for jurors in remote communities.

If longer term care is required, jurors will be referred to provincial health care services.

To access the Saskatchewan Juror Assistance and Support Program, jurors can call the toll-free number at 1-866-294-5035. Professional intake staff are available to assist 24/7 to connect jurors with counsellors in their area.

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